Oudezijds Voorburgwal 40
1012 GE AMSTERDAM
Environs: Red light district
Our Lord in the Attic is one of the oldest and most remarkable museums in Amsterdam. Behind the characteristic facade of the canal house lies a 17th-century home and a completely hidden church. This hidden church 'in the attic' was built during the Reformation, when Catholics were forbidden to hold public services.
Tolerance of faith
For over two hundred years the attic served as a parish church for Catholics in the city centre. Of course the Protestant authorities knew about the hidden church, but they turned a blind eye. Amsterdam's policy was to tolerate the diversity of faiths that flourished in the city.
Striking exhibition
Today, the Lord in the Attic church and the house form the backdrop to a succession of striking exhibitions highlighting religion and contemporary art. After the Rijksmuseum it is the city's oldest museum.